Open and Distance Learning: A Catalyst for Women empowerment in Nigeria National Open University of Nigeria as Case study

Abstract

Open and distance learning education has come of age in Nigeria. For over a decade, National Open University of Nigeria (N.O.U.N) remains the only one-mode university in Nigeria. Education is the bedrock of women empowerment, be it formal or informal education. Therefore has N.O.U.N- the only virtual university in Nigeria been able to impact on Nigerian women in term of women empowerment? The objectives of the study are to examine whether open and distance learning has an influence on women empowerment in Nigeria, to also examine whether the cost of undergoing ODL in Nigeria is affordable to Nigerian women enrolled with N.O.U.N. It also examines whether cultural women are perceived as having lower social status, which has further worsened their opportunity and consideration for education or not. This paper employed primary data of questionnaire analysis and chi-square statistical analysis as the estimation techniques. Consequently the study concludes that women empowerment is the development of mental and physical capacity, power or skills in women for them to operate meaningfully in their social milieu, thereby experiencing a more favourable level of social recognition and subsequently enhance their economic status. Finally, the paper recommends that Women should be encouraged through relevant ODL programmes that are designed to meet their needs. Educational Institutions offering ODL should be encouraged. // Paper ID: 339